Technical Assistant

Job Description

Technical Assistant (Animation)

Do you enjoy problem solving and troubleshooting technical issues? If you are interested in delving further into the technical side of animation, then this could be the role for you!

This role involves supporting the Performance team by working through any technical issues they may encounter. The Technical Assistant will troubleshoot, help artists with specific issues, and report or track those issues with the Performance TDs.

What you'll get to do:
• Understand the visual requirements for the film, design procedures, techniques and tools that will enable these to be met
• Troubleshoot and provide end user support within the Animation Software and proprietary tools, escalate where necessary
• Test and validate new releases of pipeline tools both interactive (Maya) and automated (Farm) within these Production tool and Farm environments
• Provide feedback to ensure that tools and procedures support the creative process
• Provide solutions to visual problems through existing tools
• Understand the processes of adjoining departments (eg. Assets, Layout, Assembly) and provide input where required to maximise efficiency and quality
• Debug render issues for the Animation reviews
• Assist with the QC process of shots moving in and out of the Animation department
• Create and update documentation that supports the Technical Animation processes
• Establish close partnership with Animation staff and other TD groups
• Maintain a clean common facility pipeline (tools, automation, practices) across multiple shows at the same time

What you bring:

Experience
• 1 + years' experience on feature films, TV and/or animated feature or equivalent education
• Experience supporting Animators and working with rigging methods is preferable
• Basic understanding of traditional animation techniques and the principles of character motion

Software/Technical
• An understanding of the 3D animation pipelines and the applicable tools
• Experience using Maya (preferably within a production environment)
• BONUS: Programming experience in Python and knowledge of USD

Soft Skills
• Ability to quickly acquire a working understanding of off-the-shelf and proprietary software tools
• Pro-active problem solving within parameters and the ability to troubleshoot problems as they arise
• Adaptable and calm while balancing workload with artist and production needs
• Ability to communicate in both a technical and artistic manner with various personality types
• Ability to work collaboratively, build relationships and share knowledge
• Efficiently organize and prioritize work across multiple areas with attention to detail

Please apply if you are eligible to work in Canada.

Jobcode: Reference SBJ-g6pe88-3-138-113-188-42 in your application.